These marks may look different from one baby to another and can change during the first year of life. While many need only observation, some may require closer monitoring depending on where they appear and how they develop.
To help parents better understand this condition, we spoke to Dr Dinesh Gupta, a paediatrician at Cocoon Hospital, Jaipur, for expert insights.
What Is a Strawberry Hemangioma?
A strawberry hemangioma, also called an infantile hemangioma, is a common, non-cancerous growth made up of extra blood vessels in a baby’s skin.It may appear as a small red spot at first and become more noticeable as it grows. Although often called a birthmark, it differs from many traditional birthmarks in that it can grow for a period before gradually fading.
How Does a Strawberry Hemangioma Appear?
Its appearance can vary from a small flat mark to a raised, bright-red growth.You may notice:
- A bright red or dark red spot on the skin
- A surface that is slightly raised or swollen
- A soft, spongy feel when touched gently
- A small, flat mark at first that may become more raised over time
- One mark in most babies, although some babies may have more than one
- It can appear on the face, scalp, neck, chest, back, arms, or legs
How Is It Different From a Port-Wine Stain?
Both marks can look similar at first, but they behave differently as a baby grows.This simple comparison can help parents understand the difference:
| Feature | Strawberry Hemangioma | Port-Wine Stain |
| Colour | Usually bright red | Often red, pink, or purple |
| Texture | May become raised and soft | Usually flat |
| When it appears | May appear weeks after birth | Usually present at birth |
| Growth | Can grow quickly during infancy | Grows as the child grows |
| Fading | Often becomes lighter over time | Usually does not fade on its own |
| Cause | Extra growth of blood vessels | Abnormal blood vessels in the skin |
What Can Increase the Chance of a Hemangioma?
Some babies are at higher risk of developing a strawberry hemangioma.The exact reason is not always clear, but certain factors are linked with a greater chance:
- Premature birth: Born before 37 weeks.
- Low birth weight: Weighing less at birth.
- Being female: More common in girls.
- Multiple pregnancy: More common in twins or triplets.
Growth Stages of a Strawberry Hemangioma
“During their growth, strawberry hemangiomas usually grow quickly at first, followed by a stable phase. Over the years, they gradually become smaller and lighter.”— Dr Dinesh Gupta, Paediatrician, Cocoon Hospital, Jaipur
The main stages of a strawberry hemangioma include:
| Stage | What Happens |
| Early stage | A small red or pink mark may appear on the skin. |
| Growth stage | It may become larger, brighter, or more raised. |
| Stable stage | Growth slows, and the hemangioma remains about the same size. |
| Fading stage | It slowly becomes lighter, flatter, and smaller. |
Treatment for Strawberry Hemangioma
Dr Dinesh Gupta recommends that treatment is not needed for every hemangioma. When required, the options may include:- Propranolol: Commonly used for hemangiomas that need treatment. It helps slow their growth and encourages them to shrink.
- Topical medicines: Some small, surface-level hemangiomas may be treated with medicines such as timolol.
- Laser treatment: May be considered for certain hemangiomas or leftover skin changes.
- Surgery: Rarely needed and usually considered only in selected cases.
Tips for Parents Caring for a Strawberry Hemangioma
Simple care and regular observation can help parents notice any changes early:- Take a photo every few weeks to track changes
- Avoid rubbing, scratching, or picking the area
- Keep the skin clean and dry
- Follow your paediatrician’s advice
- Do not apply creams or medicines without medical advice
When Medical Attention Is Needed
Certain changes should be checked by a doctor, especially if the hemangioma affects an important area or causes discomfort, such as:- Grows very quickly
- Starts bleeding or develops a sore
- Is near the eye, nose, or mouth
- Affects feeding, breathing, or vision
- Becomes painful or irritated
- Appears in several places on the body
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FAQs on Red Birthmark in Babies: Could It Be a Strawberry Hemangioma?
- Can a strawberry hemangioma be present at birth?
Yes, some strawberry hemangiomas can be seen at birth, but many appear or become noticeable during the first few weeks of a baby’s life. - Can a strawberry hemangioma turn into cancer?
No, strawberry hemangiomas are benign growths. They do not become cancerous and usually become smaller and lighter as the child grows. - How fast can a strawberry hemangioma grow?
They can grow quickly during the first few months, especially during early infancy. The growth usually slows before the hemangioma gradually fades.
